50 of the Spookiest Urban Legends from Every State

Whether you dismiss urban legends as children's lore or believe they're based on fact, these 50 tales will send a a shiver up your spine. Decide for yourself which of these urban legends from across the U.S. is most terrifying.

Alabama: Huggin’ Molly

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The legend of Huggin’ Molly is clearly a tool used by parents to get their children to obey the rules: The story, native to Abbeville, tells of a phantom woman who appears to children if they stay out late at night. She grips the lingering child tightly and screams in their ear—she’s not meant to cause death, just one hell of a fright. If you like urban legends, check out more chilling ghost stories that will make you a believer.

Alaska: The qalupalik

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The qalupalik, an Inuit version of a mermaid or siren, calls to children who are wandering too close to the seashore with her humming, then takes them away in her baby pouch. The greenish, womanlike creature will never return a child once taken into the depths. Sounds like a good way to convince your kids not to go in the water, if you ask us.

I have a B.A. in Writing, Literature & Publishing from Emerson College. I write for several lifestyle and entertainment publications, such as Alternative Press, Revolver, Your Tango, and The List. I'm a sucker for dogs and a hardcore kid for life. Let's start talking.